Tree Establishment: How to do it right

Have you noticed that an abundant amount of trees in our urban landscapes are on lock down?  They're staked and tied to prevent any movement! Look closer and you will also see that most of these trees are struggling?  Why is that?

Why do trees and shrubs fail?  Unfortunately proper plant selection and long term care seem to be near the bottom of the priority list after landscapes are designed and installed.  Here is a quick overview of what to look for when selecting a tree to plant, how to plant the tree, and only if necessary stake the tree for a maximum of 1 to 2 growing seasons.

Keys to Successful Tree Establishment

Plant Selection:
- Right plant for right place
- Healthy roots and shoots
- Minimal or no staking
- Locally grown or adapted to local climate

Planting:
- Planting hole should be no deeper than the root ball, 3-4 times as wide, with rough sides
- No organic amendments in back fill
- Cover root ball lightly with native soil
- Irrigate immediately after planting

Staking:
- Stake only if necessary
- Use correct staking technique and materials
- Inspect stakes and ties routinely
- Remove within two growing seasons

By following the guidelines for selecting, planting, and staking, trees are ready to successfully establish and thrive in the landscape.

U.K. Schuch and J.J. Kelly
Plant Sciences Department and
Pima County Cooperative Extension
University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721
az1402 - Revised March 2011

Full publication found here:
http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/az1402.pdf